the offerings

Books

Bonsai Heresy: 56 Myths Exposed Using Science and Tradition — $24.95 A funny, offbeat educational book that looks into our group fallacies and offers better alternatives. To learn more or to buy a copy, please visit Stone Lantern.

Praise for Bonsai Heresy

“Bonsai Heresy…is an articulate, balanced, researched, captivating — and sometimes witty — discussion of bonsai topics covering everything from techniques, to supplies, to aesthetics. So thoughtful and well written, I couldn’t put it down…I’m sure that I’ll be going back to reread portions as various situations arise. I highly and enthusiastically recommend the book!!!” —C. Brown

“This book is long overdue and certain to be a classic! If you’re serious about bonsai, you must read this book!” —Joe T.

“I agree with the previous reviews that this is the best book, to date, on why we should and how we can cultivate bonsai. So I won’t repeat the superlatives, but will offer other reasons for reading Bonsai Heresy. Michael Hagedorn is a quiet philosopher, devoted horticulturist, insightful artist, and crafty wordsmith. He has an uncanny ability to describe the mystery, science and satisfaction of knowing what to do with trees in pots. He also, and this is just as valuable, suggests an aesthetic of bonsai that will deepen our enjoyment of this living art.” —Ron D.

Post-Dated: The Schooling of an Irreverent Bonsai Monk — $14.95The whimsical story of Michael Hagedorn’s apprenticeship in Japan (Spanish and Portuguese editions available soon)

Praise for Post-Dated

“An illuminating book for those seeking the true meaning of bonsai…revealing how bonsai opens our hearts to compassion and the poignant beauty of nature.” —Felix Laughlin, Past President, National Bonsai Foundation

“… Michael’s thoughts and experiences are accurate, informative and well written. I was captivated by his book and could not put it down until I finished it!” —William N. Valavanis, teacher and publisher, International Bonsai magazine

“Michael’s [book] can spread the messages that I have always wanted to express most through bonsai . . . love for the mercy of all living things in the world, and peace: people’s hopes and dreams manifested through true works of bonsai, which can go far beyond human vitality.” —Shinji Suzuki, Kokufu and Prime Minister Award-winning bonsai master

Personal Online Education

In these extraordinary times Crataegus Bonsai is offering online assistance with your trees. Design, maintenance, seasonal techniques for various species, pot choice, and many other topics in a personal, Q & A video format is available using Skype or FaceTime. Please write crataegusbonsai@gmail.com for details.

Video Education

Bonsai Fundamentals Course – $49.99Learn about 3 fundamental concepts of Bonsai: Plant Physiology, Japanese Aesthetics, and Design Principles from this online course that partners with Bonsai Empire (coming soon: Spanish and English subtitles)

Trailer for the Fundamentals Course:

In-Person Education

The Seasonal Program is intended for students of any level, who are willing to travel to study bonsai at a high level and to spend a few days working on my trees as an apprentice would. Please see the Seasonals page devoted to that program. Discounted rates are available for students.

I am also available for Private Instruction, which offers more flexible scheduling.

Services

Sharpen up your bonsai.

Much of what I offer caters to those fully invested in the bonsai hobby. But bonsai is not just for those wanting to study it, or looking to hire a professional. Bonsai is for everyone. If you wish to experience bonsai, I invite you tocontactme for a garden visit.

Styling and Refinement

In Japan, a bonsai professional is considered to be one who styles and maintains trees owned by clients. This was my training, and it remains one of the most rewarding of my services in the United States. It was a great honor to work on some of the best trees in the world while an apprentice in Japan, and it is a goal of mine to see the bonsai here reach that same high level.

Along with sharing by teaching, creating and maintaining bonsai gives me great joy. I frequently have bonsai dropped off at my studio for styling, rewiring, or detailing for an upcoming show. I also work on private collections on site.

Sanctuary

The bonsai yard is offered as a no-fee sanctuaryfor those who have experienced recent loss or trauma and wish to be around trees. Some light bonsai activities are available on request.

Consultation

Advice on the direction of a bonsai or a collection. Also inquire about phone consults.

Presentations

Lectures and alternative presentations such as critique and seminar to organizations nationally and internationally.